Guruji, Munda speak in one voice

OUR CORRESPONDENT

Ranchi, Nov. 15: Chief minister Arjun Munda spoke about agriculture while JMM supremo Shibu Soren stressed on education and uplift of women, ignoring the underlying tension between the two allies as they shared the dais on the occasion of Statehood Day.

Clad in white kurta pyjama, Munda smiled his way through the function at Morabadi to inaugurate a three-day youth and skill fair and exhibition, part of the day’s mega celebrations.

But, Guruji, looking more amiable than usual, chose to be discreet and less vociferous, given the gravity of the occasion. “It’s time to talk less and do more. So, I don’t want to take much of your time,” Soren said, ahead of Munda’s speech.

“It’s been 12 years for Jharkhand and we all need to sit and introspect. The focus should be on education, specially bringing tribals in the mainstream of society so that they can benefit in every walk of life. I hope that we all would work towards this endeavour,” he said.

The chief minister deliberated on agriculture and how it could be made more attractive for the youth. “For me, farmers, not engineers or managers, are the creators of this state and nation,” Munda said.

“Migration is a big problem for the state. I don’t mind migration (spread) of knowledge but physical form of migration has to be stopped. Each one of us should work in this direction.”

With departmental heads in mind, the chief minister pointed out that plans shouldn’t be restricted to benefit “contractors”. Common people, he stressed, should be the focus of approach.

“It’s high time this mentality ends,” he said even as Soren nodded in agreement while sipping a cup of tea.

As many as 20 departments, including industries, agriculture, forest and environment and youth affairs, would be exhibiting their achievements centred around skill development and the youth at the exhibition.

“About 200 stalls have been set up under nine hangers. There will be technical sessions, discussions and opportunities for one-on-one interactions with officials for common people during all three days. We hope to see a good turnout,” said a PR department official.